Old Growth

Although I don't remember reaching out into the world for the first time, 
I imagine it was overwhelming.
Nature has taken it's course.
Now sprouting...
I embraced my family, my surroundings, my roots.
Properly nurtured....
I was able to endure the long days, nights and the seasons.
In no time at all, so it seemed,
I was being shaped by the unforgiving world around me.
I couldn't understand why my destiny was filled with so much struggle,
even damaging at times.
One evening, it dawned on me....
Only the strong survive.
At first, the focus was the strength in my limbs and being healthy.
However, I now know my rise above the rest was due to my inner strength and unconditional support from my roots.
Standing tall...
 I can now shadow the struggle beneath me, as my growth relentlessly reaches for the stars.
I am but a tree in a forest...
Strong, wise and rare.
I am but a tree in a forest....
A breath of fresh air.